Luis Seabra Mono A 'Alfocheiro' Tinto 2021

it is rare for a winemaker in Dão (let alone an outsider) to make a statement about Alfrocheiro, which is typically used just for blending. Under the thoughtful mastery of Seabra, Mono A allows both the natural charm and aromatics—backed up by the frontal tannin of granite terroir—to come through in a way that shows the promise of this little-known varietal.

100% Alfrocheiro. Sustainably grown vines planted around 1987 tended in granitic soils with quartz. This is a vegan wine.

Medium ruby. Lifted and intense, with red cherry, raspberry and wild strawberry, layered with rose petals, violets, eucalyptus and a quiet background note of spice. Fine, light and fresh on the palate, showing bright red fruit, delicate texture and very good drinkability. The finish is elegant and moreish, with fine tannins and a lovely savoury edge.

Luis Seabra

For nearly two decades, Luís Seabra has been at the center of a cultural shift in Portuguese winemaking, leading a movement of young, independent winemakers making history by reclaiming historical vineyards, grape varieties, and techniques. Seabra is dedicated to proving that fresh, elegant, terroir-driven still wines can be made in the Douro Valley. His fundamental understanding of soil coupled with his philosophy of minimal intervention in the vineyard and winery have launched him into the international eye as a leader of the New Portugal; according to Eric Asimov, he “is now making some of Portugal’s most compelling wines, both white and red.” Luís Seabra works with old vineyards because he believes that old vines are more resilient and well-equipped to handle the region’s intense weather; this makes them the best candidates to faithfully communicate special terroirs. When he started his solo project in 2013, he created the “Cru” series of wines, which revolve not around grape varieties, but vineyard sites. In Seabra’s own words: “we did this to show how we can put the place in the bottle.”